Development of Advanced Electric Vehicle with Driving Range of 333 KM by Japanese Start-up Company

A Japanese Start-up company by name of SIM-Drive Corporation has successfully developed an electric vehicle (EV) with a driving range of 333 KM per charge. The new EV with nickname of SIM-LEI, where LEI stands for Leading Efficiency In-Wheel motor, achieves this target using 24.5kWh capacity Lithium-ion (Li-ino) battery. However, the fundamental technologies contributing to this high performance are company’s original technology such as in-wheel motor as well as built-in frame.
In addition to these technology, steel monocoque body has resulted in reduced body weight and super low rolling friction resistance tire contributed to reduced friction resistance, plus the super low air drag body has reduced the drag drastically. The AC electrical power consumption rate on the SIM-LEI is at 77Wh/km, which is equivalent to 70km/L of the fuel efficiency rate on gasoline run automobiles. The SIM-Lei achieves a 4.8 seconds 0-100 km/h standing start acceleration. The vehicle comes in dimension of 4700mm x 1600mm x 1550mm, weighing 1650 kg, and a maximum speed of 150 km/h. In addition to all these benefits for those of us who choose not to use their EV during the day, it can be plugged in at night for storing electricity to be used for household use during the day, a perfect solution for energy shortage during the peak hours, which by the way is the most expensive time. Company is planning to put the SIM-LEI into full production by 2013. It would be interesting to see the price tag no these new nifty EVs, when they hit the market, where it opens up a huge competitive ground with local incumbents.

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ASTON MARTIN CELEBRATES 2010 – 'THE YEAR OF THE SPECIALS'

Aston Martin celebrated its product line-up demonstrating its ability to react quickly to customer demands and to create tailor-fit sports cars. Aston Martin is agile as a small volume manufacturer and this year has created: V12 Vantage Carbon Black, DBS Carbon Black, DBS UB2010, V8 Vantage N420 and now new DB9 offerings will cater for individual tastes across the world.

This attention to individual tailoring began in February when production of the Carbon Black editions began, followed in March with a Works Tailored commission made by Aston Martin to celebrate CEO, Dr. Ulrich Bez's tenth anniversary at the helm of the marque in creating 40 limited edition UB-2010 DBSs. The unique specification includes metallic leather with a woven leather seat insert. The car bears the signature of Dr. Bez, who is personally signing-off each example.

In July, Aston Martin announced the V8 Vantage N420 limited edition; a race inspired version of the V8 Vantage celebrating the marque's close links with the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife where the development of all Aston Martins takes place, and where each year, multiple Vantage entries compete at the Nürburgring 24 hour race.

The new DB9 editions offer three juxtaposed options; the Morning Frost luxury specification gives the DB9 an extra sense of sophistication resplendent in a pearlescent white exterior with a befitting metallic bronze leather interior. In contrast, the two menacing sport specifications take advantage of the special edition Carbon Black paint and Quantum Silver made famous by the DBS featured in the last James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. The exterior finishes perfectly compliment the Obsidian Black interior along with a highly polished Piano Black centre console and interior door handles.

Both the DB9 Carbon Black and Quantum Silver also feature the six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission, a re-mapped sports exhaust providing an even more evocative sound when driving spiritedly and unique 19" 10 spoke forged gloss black painted diamond-turned wheels. Black grilles, graphite tail pipes, perforated seat inners, semi-aniline leather roof lining, coarse silver stitching and real polished glass switchgear complete the sport specification.

The DB9 Morning Frost also benefits from the Touchtronic II transmission mounted on the transaxle giving the car perfect 50:50 weight balance. 19" 10 spoke silver diamond-turned wheels, silver brake calipers, magnum silver grilles, and metallic bronze leather headlining with perforated seat inners along with Piano Black centre console and door grabs create a sophisticated ambiance.

The three editions are bestowed with a unique laser etched sill plaque depicting the famous wings insignia along with "Morning Frost", "Carbon Black" or "Quantum Silver."

These special editions are available to order now from Aston Martin's global dealership network.

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The new Audi A6: high tech in the executive class

Audi has redesigned its flagship executive class model. The new A6 is set to make its market debut in early 2011. With its light body, sporty chassis and a wide array of new assistance and multimedia systems, the full-sized sedan is packed with innovative solutions in every area of technology. The range of available engines and drivetrains is equally extensive. Combining the power of a V6 with the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder engine, the soon-to-be-available A6 hybrid will be one highlight of the lineup.

Much of the body of the new Audi A6 consists of aluminum and high-tech steels, rendering it exceedingly light, stiff and safe. State-of-the art design methods and materials ensure extremely low interior noise levels. Precision tuning of all components and systematic hydraulic damping in the axle and drivetrain bearings provide excellent vibrational comfort.

The design of the new Audi A6 embodies athleticism and elegance. The sedan is 4.92 meters (16.14 ft) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) wide, but just 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) high – sporty proportions that are unrivaled by the competition. The long engine hood, the low, sweeping roofline and the prominent lines on the flanks create a dynamic overall appearance. Optional LED headlights emphasize the striking expression at the front.

The roomy interior of the new Audi A6 echoes the sinewy style of the exterior. The salient element is the "wrap-around" – an inlay encircling the driver and the front-seat passenger. The elegantly curved dash panel places the driver at the center of the interior.

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The new Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster: Passion meets efficiency

With the completely newly developed SLK, one of the most exciting and successful sports cars ever built is entering its third generation. The new roadster uncompromisingly takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to a new level. It blends light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, a striking sports-car design with total suitability for everyday use, top performance with exemplary ecology. What’s more, the SLK is proud to present the world premiere of the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which switches to light or dark at the touch of a button. Exemplary efficiency and sporty flair come courtesy of powerful new 4- and 6-cylinder engines featuring the standard-specification ECO start/stop function. With their superb levels of performance they are up to 25 percent more economical than their predecessors. And a unique set of safety equipment bestows role-model status on the SLK in this segment. With its wealth of technical innovations the SLK is once again the benchmark in its class.

“The new SLK embodies the role of the trend-setter like no other car”, says Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “I am convinced that with its passionate design, its high-quality interior and its modesty at the filling station it will continue to provide an enormous amount of fun on the road in future, too, consolidating its status as a cult roadster.”
Innovations are part of the successful history of the Mercedes-Benz SLK:

* In 1996 the first generation caused a furore with the vario-roof, which transformed the wide-open roadster into a coupé with a fixed roof at the touch of a button in just a few seconds
* The second generation placed the warm AIRSCARF around the neck and shoulders of the occupants as needed, ensuring pleasurable open-top motoring even in cooler temperatures
* Now the third generation is presenting one of its unique highlights – the world premiere of the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. It can be quickly switched to light or dark at the press of a button

But the new Mercedes-Benz SLK offers more than merely individual highlights. It assumes a leading position in every discipline and offers fun at the wheel in every respect, with no half-hearted compromises. It impresses with characteristics which are generally deemed to be irreconcilable: it succeeds in uniting excellent comfort and high-quality equipment and appointments with a decidedly sporty flair, for instance. At the same time the new roadster is the most economical and thus the most environmentally friendly in its class, also setting new safety standards. And all-weather driving enjoyment – open and closed, in leisure-time and everyday use – is firmly anchored in the SLK’s genes.

Timeless aesthetics embodies hallmark sports-car sensuality
The designers have tailor-made a body for the new SLK which emphasises its classic roadster proportions and puts them in the spotlight to thrilling effect. Behind the long bonnet is a compact passenger compartment positioned far back, and a short tail end. The SLK will tempt potential customers with the key attributes that characterise all the classic roadsters from Mercedes-Benz and that have also made many of them automotive icons of the brand.

The first feature to catch the eye is an upright radiator grille that stands proud and confident in the wind and bears the new Mercedes-Benz brand look. It facilitates the long and well-proportioned bonnet and with its rearward light-catching contours it already hints at the roadster’s dynamic qualities. The wide radiator grille bears the Mercedes-Benz star in a prominent central position and displays a powerfully contoured fin, chromed at the front. The clearly defined headlamps complete the look for the new SLK’s face, which resembles that of the legendary 190 SL from the 1950s, which is regarded by many as being the original “SLK”. But it was certainly not just the past that the designers were focusing on; with the new SLK’s front end they also intentionally created a close visual link with the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG “gullwing model” and the new CLS.

The amazing and measurable proof of the meticulously detailed work that has been carried out is that in spite of the more striking, steeper front and the larger frontal area, the Cd value has been cut to just 0.30 – a brilliant achievement (the predecessor model’s Cd value was 0.32).

The timelessly classic shape of the side view with the classic roadster proportions embodies aesthetics of the highest calibre and is a visual promise of the sporti-ness and driving pleasure in store. Fine details and quotes show the care that has been taken by the Mercedes-Benz designers. For example, a fillet conceals the boot joint, so that the side line cannot get in the way, as it usually does with similar roof designs. The ventilation grilles in the front wings with a chromed fin are reminiscent of the famous Mercedes-Benz roadsters of the 1950s. In the new SLK they form the perfect starting point for a feature line which flows to the muscular rear wing, using light and shadow to add style and timeless aesthetics to the sides. Meanwhile the upper edge of the wide headlamps – which boast all-LED technology for the first time – also appears to flow into the feature line.

Interior with style and puristic good looks
With the most compact dimensions in its class, the new SLK has an interior whose generous size is exemplary. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments which offer the driver and passenger the highest degree of perfect perceived quality and puristic precision. The interior is characterised by stylish sportiness and high-quality, authentic materials which have been processed with perfect precision and skilled craftsmanship. Even in the base version the centre console and other trim parts gleam in brushed aluminium. Wood can be selected as an option in high-gloss dark brown walnut or high-gloss black ash. Four round, galvanised air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasise that this model well and truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being a nod to those in the SLS.

The SLK’s generous round dials are flanked by a display for the information generated by the online computer. The colour display for the communications and entertainment functions is housed in the centre of the dashboard, and can be easily read by both the driver and passenger. On the top of the dashboard, also in the centre, sits a fine analogue clock – an unusual detail which subtly underlines the roadster’s stylish character.

Other high-quality items of equipment include a multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened bottom section and a thick leather crown, plus optional sun-reflecting leather which noticeably reduces the degree to which the surfaces it covers heat up, impressive ambient lighting and the innovative neck-level heating system AIRSCARF, familiar from the predecessor.

Spirit and efficiency
There will initially be three models of the SLK available at its market launch, all of them powered by new engines with direct injection. The four-cylinder engines in the SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY and SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY develop 135 kW (184 hp) and 150 kW (204 hp) respectively from a displacement of 1796 cubic centimetres. The SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY is the most economical roadster in its segment. With the enhanced, optional seven-speed automatic transmission 7G‑TRONIC PLUS it consumes just 6.1 litres of premium petrol (NEDC, combined) over 100 kilometres (that corresponds to 142 g of CO2 per kilometre). The frugal model sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.0 seconds, and achieves its top speed at 237 km/h (240 km/h with manual transmission).

The SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY is equipped as standard with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and consumes only 6.2 litres (NEDC, combined) over 100 kilometres (144 g of CO2 per kilometre). From a standstill it reaches 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, and it has a top speed of 243 km/h.

The V6 engine in the SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY draws 225 kW (306 hp) from its 3498 cubic-centimetre displacement, using this power to accelerate in 5.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (top speed 250 km/h). Its consumption is 7.1 litres (NEDC, combined) over 100 kilometres (167 g of CO2 per kilometre). The V6 engine has been completely newly developed. Its most important hallmarks are its 3rd-generation direct injection, piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition.

The exemplary efficiency, with fuel consumption reduced by up to a quarter compared with the predecessor models, is also due to the ECO start/stop system which is fitted as part of the standard specification in all models.

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The BRABUS WIDESTAR Wide Version for the Mercedes SLS

The new BRABUS WIDESTAR wide version represents a custom-tailored designer suit for the Mercedes SLS AMG. In addition to the extravagant high-tech carbon-fiber body program for the gullwing the tuner also offers ultralight forged wheels, an electronically adjustable Ride Control smooth-ride suspension, a titanium high-performance exhaust system with electronically controlled sound management and custom BRABUS interiors.

To give the SLS an even more muscular appearance the BRABUS designers have developed custom-tailored BRABUS WIDESTAR components for the rear axle. Like all other body components they are made from extremely light yet very strong carbon fibers identical to the ones used in Formula 1 racing. The add-on parts for the rear fenders and the rear fascia create an even more spectacular look and make room for special wheels that widen the rear track by 20 millimeters for even further improved driving dynamics.

The suspension engineers developed custom-tailored versions of the ultralight BRABUS Monoblock F PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels in sizes 9.5Jx20 in front and 11Jx21 on the rear axle for the wide version of the SLS. These wheels are available with a brushed-design or ceramics-polished surface and can also be painted in any desired color. The staggered wheels with 20- and 21-inch diameters on front and rear axles further emphasize the wedge-shaped look of the sports car.

Despite the wheels' bigger size they deliver a weight reduction of up to 12 percent compared to the SLS production wheels. The reduced unsprung weight further results in even more agile handling. BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA supply the optimal high-performance tires in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 21.

The wide version is rounded out by aerodynamic-enhancement components developed in the wind tunnel. All BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement components are made from carbon fibers and are available with a matte or glossy clear-coated finish for a true racing look. Optionally these components can be painted in body or contrasting color.

To further reduce lift on front and rear axle BRABUS equips the SLS with a front spoiler for the production front fascia, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser. Together these components create an even better aerodynamic balance. Two BRABUS covers for the upper air dams of the bumper and side air outlets for the rear fascia are further visual details of the BRABUS WIDESTAR version.

The work of the BRABUS designers also gives the sides of the gullwing more profile and further improved aerodynamic efficiency. The rocker panels were sculpted to optimize the airflow between front and rear axle and to create a perfect transition to the WIDESTAR components on the rear axle. Integrated entrance lights ensure safe entering and exiting of the vehicle in the dark.

The BRABUS air outlets for the front fenders add more of sporty touches. At night they draw attention with their integrated blue-illuminated BRABUS logos that are activated via the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle.

The ride-height lowering by up to 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) also plays an important role in the striking appearance of the BRABUS-modified SLS. The BRABUS suspension is height-adjustable and was developed in cooperation with technology partner BILSTEIN. At the push of a button its integrated Ride Control function also offers a smoother ride than the production car. From the cockpit the driver can at any time - even while driving - switch between damper settings that offer a more comfortable or a sportier ride than the production car.

For sporty-minded SLS owners BRABUS offers stiffer sway bars for front and rear axle that reduce body roll for even more precise handling.

The BRABUS high-performance exhaust system with four slanted exhaust tips with diameters of 84 millimeters (3.3 inches) is somewhat atypical for traditional tuning. Its sound management, controlled by the driver and activated by a pneumatic flap, includes a 'coming home' setting that is quieter than the production exhaust. In 'sport' mode the 6.3-liter eight-cylinder engine produces an even more powerful exhaust note than with the production exhaust. The BRABUS exhaust system is manufactured from extremely lightweight titanium and weighs 12 kilograms (26 lbs.) or 40 percent less than the production exhaust. Another welcome by-product of this exhaust is an increase in power output by 10 hp / 7.4 kW.

BRABUS offers a multitude of exclusive custom interior options for the two-seater car as well. Carbon-fiber inlays in any desired color and matte anodized aluminum pedals and foot rest add sporty highlights.

The ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel is made from a combination of leather and Alcantara and provides especially good grip for further improved road feedback. The speedometer with 400-km/h scale (250 mph) already hints at the car's future performance with BRABUS engine tuning.

The BRABUS upholstery shop offers a sheer endless multitude of colors and designs for the masterfully crafted SLS interiors made from the finest leathers and Alcantara. These interiors can be custom-tailored to suit each SLS owner's personal taste down to the last detail.

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Coda Automotive Means To Sell 50,000 Electric Cars By 2015

The United States hasn’t exactly been a huge market for electric vehicles. Between the “happy motoring” past which evokes images of fuel-sucking muscle cars roaring into the night or a gigantic 1953 Ford Colossus ambling down the road on a sunny Sunday at a whopping 3.1 miles per gallon, and the various problems that electrics would face in, say, winter (the thought of some lightweight car on icy roads fills me with a dread colder than the ice on the road), it’s not exactly conducive to sales here for electric vehicles. But Coda Automotive’s taken up the gauntlet and means to sell fully 50,000 electrics by 2015–and most of them in the United States.

Coda’s record of meeting its stated goals isn’t exactly top-notch so far–they originally, according to reports, had planned to start selling electric sedans in California by the end of last year, which it has not met–but give them credit for sheer chutzpah, they’re going on with the goal-setting. They’re planning to get started selling after June of this year (the second half of the year is the current word), and they mean to not only sell at least 10,000 cars in its first complete year of operations, but they also mean to sell fully 50,000 total by 2015, again, mostly in the US.
A tall order by any stretch of the imagination, compounded by the fact that Coda’s sedans run fully $37,400 (and that’s with the government’s tax credits for buying this kind of thing), will get between 90 and 120 miles on a charge and will take fully six hours to go from dead battery to fully charged.
Explanations as to how they plan to overcome the various objections they’ll meet–like trying to sell these in economically depressed areas, or in areas that get a lot of snow and ice (seriously, can anyone else see one of these teeny little things going through a foot-deep drift of packed snow?)–are somewhat short on the ground. But they’ve got the plan in mind (maybe they mean to stick to areas that don’t get a lot of snow?), and so, they’re going with it.
It remains to be seen if they can pull it off, but you’ve got to give them credit for sheer effort

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Web super-highway: The car that reads out emails, Facebook and Twitter updates while you're driving along Read

The world's first 'Internet car' which reads emails, Facebook and Twitter updates to the driver was unveiled yesterday.

Motorists behind the wheel of the Rinspeed BamBoo can also surf the net using a series of voice commands.

Drivers simply attach their smart phones or iPads into a charger in the electric-powered car before they set off.

Designers Harman, who unveiled the vehicle at the Geneva Motor Show, said the first cars with the technology could be on the road within 18 months.

Spokeswoman Kay Robinson said: 'The technology is designed to prevent the driver being distracted by texts and emails.

'Through voice commands the computer reads a person's messages to them as they drive.'

The car is compatible with all smart phones, iPads and Blackberry devices.

Twitter updates, Facebook messages and instant texts can all be accessed by the driver while the car is moving.

Ms Robinson said: 'At the moment, when a driver receives a text or an email or even a Twitter update they have to pull over to read it.

'This technology means they can be kept up to date without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road.'

Drivers can also search digital radio stations with voice commands using the car's 'infotainment' technology.

The car also comes fitted with its own Wi-Fi transmitter allowing passengers to use their laptops or mobile devices.

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Mitsubishi i-MiEV Debuts in Europe [Mitsubishi Starts Selling Electric i-MiEV in 15 European Countries; US Release to Follow Later in 2011] Read: Mitsubishi i-MiEV Debuts in Europe [Mitsubishi Starts Selling Electric i-MiEV in 15 European Countries; US Release to Follow Later in 2011] » TFTS – Technology, Gadgets & Curiosities

EVs are poised to take over the automotive industry, with various manufacturers coming out with their high MPGe plug-in cars, some of which are purely electric. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV has just debuted in Europe.

Nissan has its LEAF EV, Chevy has its Volt, Toyota has the planned plug-in Prius, and other manufacturers have their own contender. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is Mitubishi’s foray into the consumer electric vehicle market. With a 100-mile range per charge, and an 80 mph maximum speed, the i-MiEV is comparable to other EVs in the same price range.
The i-MiEV will initially sell in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norwa, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK. There are also requests to introduce the EV to Finland, Serbia, Turkey and Slovenia.
A US version is planned for release later this year, although no definite date has been announced. In the US market, Mitsubishi plans to sell the i-MiEV at $30,000, and tax credits are expected to bring down the price further

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Newly Developed Wide-Area Traffic Simulator by Fujitsu

With an aim to create a comfortable and safer transportation system, Fujitsu Laboratories has developed a wide-area traffic simulator offering its users virtual driving experience, where the user can evaluate the effectiveness of traffic policies and discover problem areas from the actual driver’s perspective, helping to design appropriate traffic policies which are more in tune with traffic conditions. Through this development Fujitsu’s new system is able to simulate in real-time the detail behavior of tens of thousands of vehicles located across a wide area of roadway. The newly developed system generates 60 frames per second of video displaying the road from driver’s viewpoint. The new system splits up the wide region into multiple areas and calculates each of these areas in parallel. The system also performs the real-time calculation of on migration of vehicles across area of boundaries, as well as interaction between vehicles. The system is capable of computing driver behavior, route planning, driving operations and physical movement of vehicles all in real-time. This calculation is done based on a layered vehicle behavior computational model and changes the volume and frequency of calculations for each layer.
The company is planning to use the newly developed simulator for evaluating traffic guidance and other systems that employ traffic status sensing and telematic technologies. With all the available technologies such as Vehicle Information and Communication System (VICS), Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) and such measures as adjustments to highway toll fees and advanced notification of signal information and road pricing has yet to provide a sound solution in addressing road and driving safety. With nearly all major routes in Japan’s metropolitan cities facing around the clock congestion, changing traffic policies in accordance to the traffic behavior in designated areas is a step in a right direction. I hope the newly developed system can provide to traffic authorities sufficient insights that some of the policies that are being enforced are not effective. Having said this we the driving community can not simply close our eyes and expect the laws of the road will magically improve or ensure our driving safety. This is an individual effort based on common courtesy and sound judgment given the situation.

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PPI RAZOR AUDI R8 G

The only exclusive Audi-tuner from Germany, PPI Automotive Design GmbH, breaks through the Audi-tuning arena yet again, and presents their new limited production Supercar, the PPI RAZOR GTR-10. The Audi specialist turned its focus on optimising the power-to-weight ratio of the Audi R8 while simultaneously strengthening the motor, increasing performance, improving handling dynamics, and managing to reduce the weight of the Audi R8. The end result is a culmination of knowledge from the past year in research and development to create a truly inspired production car; the RAZOR GTR-10. This vehicle will be available to only 10 select individuals.

Performance

Following the introduction of the PPI RAZOR GTR supercharged V8; PPI Automotive Design GmbH has increased their repertoire by refining the Audi R8 V10 model. PPI Automotive Design utilized all its magic to optimize the aerodynamics as well as performance of the series vehicle.

The essential part of the motor alteration is the incorporation of race-proven parts. The air intake system over the rear engine cover is not only a lightweight component but also serves dual duty as a channel for the ram-charged sport air filter system. A lightweight high performance exhaust system made of stainless steel has been designed and added specifically to work in conjunction with the V10. This is tipped off with Ceramic-Coated oval tips. These components are precisely adjusted to each other with the help of a new ignition map for motor electronics. The result is pure engine refinement of the highest calibre.

The performance numbers:

The result, after this extensive modification, is a normally aspirated V10 engine with over 601 hp (448 kW).

at 7,400 rpm, and a maximum torque of 565 Nm at 6,400 rpm at its disposal. Couple the power increase with a weight decrease of 250 kg (depending on options) over its serial counterpart (serial curb weight V10 R-tronic: 1,625 kg). The end result is the ability to achieve speeds from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.2 seconds (with modified R-tronic Gearbox) and a maximum top speed of 335 km/h. This insures the proper performance to easily meet the demands of its motorsports and enthusiast clientele.

Aerodynamics

In addition to the excellent driving performance, this PPI Supercar also has a striking widebody appearance with elaborate, wind tunnel tested aerodynamics. Special attention was paid to the reduction of the vehicle’s weight, which was achieved by PPI’s extensive use of the high-strength formula 1 and aerospace-proven Carbon Fibre technology. All parts are made of this high-tech material, reducing weight and adding strength in the process.

The RAZOR GTR-10 front bumper replaces the serial bumper and the new design in conjunction with a specially engineered front diffuser reduces lifting forces at the front axle. Larger air inlets in connection with a new incorporated LED day-running unit present the two-seater with an even more athletic and aggressive face. More importantly, these air inlets feed the radiators with additional fresh air and channels through the new front hood to provide optimal cooling to the brake system. PPI sideskirts highlight the sporty profile of the RAZOR GTR-10 and also diffuses the airflow around the sides of the car for improved aerodynamic stability. The inlets of the sideskirts further aid much needed cooling to the engine oil coolers and rear brake system.

The roof pillars and doors, like the rest of the supercar, are draped in carbon fibre.

In order to perfectly balance out the down-force behaviour of the front-axle with the rear axle, PPI equips the RAZOR GTR-10 with a special hollow, Carbon Fibre rear wing with an adjustable Gurney-flap. The motor cover is made of carbon fibre and incorporates glass made of the light high-tech polycarbonate material Makrolon®. The engine lid also has specially designed Carbon Fibre ram-charged air inlets that replace the heavy OE/OEM Engine cover and further aids in cooling the engine as well as feeding ram-charged air to the intake system, ensuring the consistent performance of the RAZOR GTR-10. Aiding in the engine cooling, are the newly designed side blades, rear fenders and rear bumper that all allow for additional motor bay and exhaust cooling that, in conjunction with the Carbon Fibre rear diffuser, optimises the airflow over and through the rear portion of this sharp performance car.

Handling

A new widebody skin allows the PPI RAZOR GTR-10 the proper structure to accommodate all the performance enhancements, including wider wheels and tires. Not to mention enhancement to the overall appearance of the car. The RAZOR GTR-10 utilizes specially designed lightweight MAG11 Forged Aluminium PPI wheels. At the front, 9Jx19 MAG11 wheels weighing 10.0 kg with 245/35 ZR 19 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tyres are fitted and an impressive 12.0J x 20 MAG11 wheels weighing 10.9 kg with 325/25 ZR 20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tyres are used at the rear. This wheel and tyre-combination proves to be the optimal balance between comfort and control while maintaining proper road feedback for the driver.

PPI has also developed a special high-performance braking system available for the RAZOR GTR-10 that can be identified by its metallic orange-coloured brake callipers. The optimal deceleration and perfect pedal pressure control is now achieved by enlarged 6-piston callipers in connection with extra-large discs measuring 380 x 36 millimetres at the front and 356 x 32 mm discs at the rear axle providing greater pad surface contact area and heat dissipation. Alternatively, the vehicle can be equipped with Audi’s Carbon Ceramic Brake System with PPI-specified higher friction brake pads.

Nothing has been left untouched, as is evidenced by the new coil over kit developed in conjunction with technology partner KW Automotive GmbH. This system has been specially adjusted to the needs of the RAZOR GTR-10. And comes equipped with a Hydraulic Lift System for the front axle, which can increase ground clearance by up to 45 millimetres if needed and therefore enables the driver to enter underground car parks or drive over speed bumps. This system in combination with PPI’s Springs, Camber Kit and Tie-rod kit ensure that the RAZOR GTR-10 stays sure-footed and balanced in any situation, whether on the street or race track.

Interior “Performance”

PPI completely redesigns the interior and turns the R8-interior into a “members-only” lounge with a motorsports flair. The serial interior is replaced by highest quality Onyx Nubuck-leather with Metallic-coloured accents and highlights per clients request. Additionally, PPI equips the limited edition RAZOR GTR-10 with extensive Carbon Fibre throughout the cockpit; hand-brake lever, door sill protectors, driver and radio console surround, door trims, center console inserts, and kneepad trims. The ultra-light folding sport seats are also made of Carbon Fibre and bear the PPI “Sport Identity” style, which is present in the headliner, the steering wheel, shift knob, door panels and center console. The technical highlight of the interior is the ergonomically re-designed PPI sport steering wheel with steering wheel-mounted Carbon Fibre Shift Paddles (R-tronic only).

Highlighting the exclusivity of this limited series production is the RAZOR GTR-10 badging, threshold plates, and an aluminium production plaque framed by Carbon Fibre.

The new PPI RAZOR GTR-10 Supercar…. BOLD Design, SHARP performance, and EXCLUSIVE production, developed and presented by PPI Automotive Design GmbH, the only tuners for Audi automobiles with a true focus on “Engineering in Style.

The all-new Carbon Fibre PPI RAZOR GTR-10 limited production Supercar

Intense driving pleasure in a strikingly bold design. More POWER. More STYLE. More PASSION

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Mercedes-Benz Nimbus: Electric taxi for crowded cities of 2025

Eco Factor: Eco-friendly taxi concept powered by four electric motors.

The Mercedes-Benz Nimbus concept is a car taxi with an innovative layout, designed as a new visual and practical solution for the crowded cities in 2025. Conceptualized by Slavche Tanevski of Munich University of Applied Sciences, this green car is powered by four electric motors mounted in the hub, which are supported by lithium-ion batteries under the floor. This allowed placing the driver’s seat forward, while putting an extra row of seats.

A tribute to the world’s first motorized taxi Victoria, built by Daimler in 1897, the Nimbus is designed to perfectly fit into the ancient architecture of European cities. The passenger space can accommodate up to five people or three with luggage. It also features a large glass area that not only lets in ample of light, but also offers a mesmerizing view of the scenery.

The driver seat is position right in the center to give him excellent visibility due to the absence of front struts and a glass dome. In addition, an element over the driver’s head performs the aerodynamic and protective function, as well as visually separates the passenger space from his workplace. Part of a project completed during an internship at Mercedes Exterior Design Studio, the Nimbus certainly has a retro feel to it.

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Halo Intersceptor Car Concept Can Morph Into A Boat, Helicopter, And A Jet

The Halo Intersceptor is an astonishing project consisting in a 311-mile-per-hour concept car that can transform into a jet, a helicopter, or a boat. This awesome concept comes from U.K. concept designer Philip Pauley and it makes Batman’s car look like an Olds Mobile.
So we got a base component, the car cockpit ( the Intersceptor ), which is a four seater ‘USB stick’ that is designed to be greater that any other private vehicle on earth. It can achieve 2.3 seconds from 0 to 60 and has a range of 700 miles. From this point you can attach, by your desire, one of three Halo attachments.
The Halo 120 will transform this vehicle into a private jet that can climb 25,890 feet a minute and has the martial good looks of a Tomcat. On the other side, the Halo 46 is a helicopter that can carry two pilots and two passengers. Last, but not least, the Halo 22 is a 36-foot-long boat with an engine you can throttle up to 63 knots. Unfortunately, the Halo Intersceptor won’t be available at the auto dealers any time soon, and there are no details on how you attach all the parts.

Halo Intersceptor Car Front

Halo Intersceptor Boat

Halo Intersceptor Car

Halo Intersceptor Car Front

Halo Intersceptor Helicopter

Halo Intersceptor Jet

Halo Intersceptor Car Front

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Not An Ordinary SUV Concept Comes From An Iranian Designer

We all seen Soldier of Fortune or if you remember there was a film called Starship Troopers. When I look at the design those two come into my mind.

It is a SUV but not an ordinary one. With 4X4 traction this automobile (or tank if we look at the armor) will climb any landscape regardless of its height. It was made by Iman Maghsoudi, an Iranian designer and then modeled by Mohammad R. Shojaie and Farzad Barkhordary.
The engine gives the stability of the vehicle. The gravity center would be somewhere in the middle of this futuristic concept.
The vehicle could be use in many jobs: as a military transporter (by the looks of it could sustain some weapons) or even as a transportation vehicle for the tourist that need to reach tough terrain.
Always look in the rear mirror for it, it’s my advice.

Futuristic SUV Back

Futuristic SUV Army

Futuristic SUV Side

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BMW’s Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept is a truly powerful beauty

BMW’s Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept seems to be the car that would make you forget about the M6, without even taking a look at its specs. This concept looks pretty realistic, unlike other UFO-like concepts and it’s also extremely beautiful and ferocious.
But I’m sure that after you look long enough at its design, you’ll also be interested about the specifications, and it features a three-cylinder turbodiesel hybrid electric 265 HP engine, which seems just enough to drive you crazy and protect the environment.

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KIA UAE launches 2011 Sportage in new Deira showroom

Al Majid Motors Co. - the sole distributor of KIA cars in the UAE - has launched the 2011 KIA Sportage SUV in KIA UAE's all new state-of-the-art showroom in Deira, Dubai. KIA's latest showroom — which also acts as KIA UAE's new Dubai headquarters — officially opened yesterday and is the company's third showroom in Dubai.

According to General Manager of Al Majid Motors Co., Mohammad Khader: "It's not often a car dealership gets to launch a brand new car and showroom at the same time, so we're very happy with the timing."

He added, "KIA's new Deira showroom is the second in the area and is located right in the hub of the area's automobile market. With this latest addition we now have ten showrooms throughout the UAE, all of which offer sales, after-sales and spare parts services. With this new showroom under our belt, we look forward to increasing KIA's sales by at least 20%."

The 2011 KIA Sportage features a totally new body shell and engine, distinctive styling and a range of luxury elements. 

Longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the 2011 Sportage is instantly recognisable by its 'tiger' face which incorporates Peter Schreyer's modern signature grille design that now links all new KIA models.

KIA's new-and-improved 2.4-litre or 2.0-litre Theta II engine is fitted with the latest electronics and low-friction components and features a build that's substantially lighter than the previous models. Boasting increased power, boosted durability, enhanced refinement and lower fuel consumption and emissions, the four-cylinder, 2,359 cc power unit features weight-saving all-aluminium construction with a cast aluminium block, cylinder head and sump. Maximum rpm can be raised by 200 to 6,000 with maximum power output being 177 ps (166 for the 2.0-litre version), with 227 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.

The car's standard CDP audio system includes a CD player with MP3, USB and iPod connectivity and six top-of-the-range speakers; one in each door and a tweeter at each end of the dashboard. The optional upgraded CDC system includes a woofer and external amplifier that can generate amazing surround sound. 

KIA is serious about investing in R&D programmes directed at enhancing active and passive vehicle safety to deliver the highest levels of occupant protection. The sturdy new 2011 Sportage is no exception and comes fitted with six airbags strategically placed on both front and back seats.

Additional active safety technologies can be fitted to the new Sportage. These include: ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and two new systems; HAC (Hill Start Assist Control) and DBC (Downhill Brake Control). HAC prevents slip-back during stop-start driving-up inclines, while DBC ensures safer travel down steep slopes by maintaining a steady 8 kph (5 mph) speed.

The performance of the Sportage's all-disc braking system is boosted by three systems: a regular ABS (anti-lock system); EBD (electronic brake-force distribution) to adjust the front/rear brake pressure; and BAS (brake assist system) which recognises an emergency stop and delivers maximum braking power. Two active systems are available to assist drivers with reversing manoeuvres. The first is a back-warning sensor that helps the driver avoid contact with pedestrians by triggering an audible warning whenever the vehicle approaches an obstruction.

The second is the new rear-view camera mounted on the tailgate. This camera is fitted with a 130-degree, wide-angle lens which transmits images to an LCD display set within the interior rear-view mirror, or to the navigation display, if fitted. It allows the driver to simultaneously check the rear-view and blind spot below the rear window. 

The second-generation Sportage was introduced in 2004 and indicated a massive step forward for KIA. Over the next six years, the second-generation model attracted thousands of customers, achieving global sales of more than 860,000 units, including more than 172,000 units in 2009.

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New Suzuki Swift at Paris Auto Show

Suzuki unveiled an all new bigger and safer Swift at the Paris Auto Show for the European market. The new Swift is built on a new platform and will have dimensions of 3.85 X 1.69 X 1.51 (L X B X H). Also Suzuki has used more super strength steel in manufacturing the new Swift’s body, making it safer than ever.

New Suzuki Swift will be available will be available with two engine options.  1.2L petrol engine will generate 94 bhp and give a mileage of 20 kmpl. 1.3L diesel engine will generate 75 bhp and give mileage of 23.8 kmpl. Both these engines will have a top speed of 165 kmph.

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Nissan launches 2011 370Z Roadster

Less than a year after the introduction of the all-new Nissan 370Z Coupe, a vehicle that reset the bar for affordable sports car design and performance, comes its dramatic new stable mate, the 2011 Nissan 370Z Roadster. The seductively styled Z Roadster offers everything the hardtop Z Coupe does - and more.

As in more classic open-air sports car driving excitement. More sun, moon and stars. And more refinement than any Z convertible that has ever come before - including a standard automatic latching power top and Nissan Intelligent Key. Also offered are an array of technology and convenience features, including available cooled seats, Nissan touch screen navigation system and Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System. The 2011 370Z Roadster is available now from Nissan's GCC retailers.

"The 370Z Roadster delivers an exhilarating connection to the air, wind and environment on top of the new Z Coupe's exceptional levels of performance. But perhaps unexpected for a car this sporty is its greatly enhanced refinement and quality - as seen in features such as its one-touch, auto-locking convertible top and beautifully crafted interior,"

said Yuta Yamazaki, Brand Manager at Nissan Middle East.

A Truly Authentic Roadster

The 370Z Roadster's most obvious departure from the 370Z Coupe is its convertible top. The soft-top roof was designed with an emphasis on three key areas: to provide a sleek silhouette matching the new Z's stunning styling with the top up or down, to offer easy single-action open-close operation, and to provide an enjoyable top-down experience with reduced wind turbulence and all-climate driver/passenger comfort.

With convertible top in the closed position, the design provides a sophisticated sloped-back appearance, the perfect balance between the soft top and the Z body design. The shortened windshield and aerodynamically rounded rear deck enhance the Z's kinetic and dynamic character lines. When in the down position, the convertible top is concealed beneath a full body-color hard tonneau cover, which extends forward to help create the Z Roadster's classic 'double cockpit' style interior.

The Black or Bordeaux (dark purple) cloth convertible top features a fabric inner liner, which provides a quality appearance and helps reduce noise intrusion into the cabin, along with an enlarged (versus the previous generation 350Z Roadster) glass rear window with an integrated electric rear window defroster. The top operation takes approximately 20 seconds start-to-finish and is controlled by either a center console-mounted switch or by a button located on the doors. The automatic latch system secures the top to - or releases it from - the windshield header without driver intervention. The shape and position of the glass wind deflector, located between the fixed headrest bars, has been optimized to reduce turbulence into the cabin.

Like the new 370Z Coupe, the Z Roadster's new exterior is more aggressive in appearance and lighter and tighter in structure than the previous generation 350Z model. The wheelbase is nearly 100mm shorter and overall length is reduced by 65mm. The new Z Roadster features an aluminium hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised, improving rigidity and stability. The 370Z Roadster includes additional structural reinforcement (over the 370Z Coupe), including in the A-pillars and side sills.

The Z Roadster's exterior design incorporates the look and feel of the new Z Coupe, including its signature long nose/short cockpit proportions, vertical door handles and distinctive new headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce 'boomerang' shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.

The 370Z Roadster is offered in eight exterior colors in the GCC: Vibrant Red, Pearl White, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Blade Silver, Monterey Blue, Grey Metallic and Black Rose.

Inside the stunning exterior, true to its sports car heritage, the Z Roadster's interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place - so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive, top up or down.

The Z Roadster features a choice of high back Bordeaux or Black perforated leather seats with 4-way, power adjustment for driver's & passenger's seat, manual lifter (driver's seat) and adjustable lumber support (driver's seat). The chosen seating color is also co-ordinated to the roof fabric material too. The seats are exclusive to the Z Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions - ideal for open air driving no matter what the outside temperature. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.

The Z Roadster's 2-seat layout includes a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger's seat. The instrument panel retains the traditional Z 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an 'initial sweep' function, coming alive when the car is first started.

The sporty steering wheel is a new 'oval' 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching, improved thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is 'shaved' to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The manual transmission shifter is specially padded to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.

Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature and a center console box with a non-intrusive cover design.

Other features include automatic climate control, two 12-volt power outlets, three cup holders (two in door panels, one in center console) and a 6CD Bose audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System and aluminium-trimmed pedals. 

The optional Nissan Navigation system includes a touch-screen interface including four times higher screen resolution (than previous systems), wireless music player audio streaming capability (via Bluetooth) and an in-dash DVD player.

Open Air, Open Roads - An Unbeatable Combination

Roadster or Coupe, the new Zs share one of the most advanced drivetrains available for affordable sports cars today. The Z Roadster's long list of cutting edge performance-focused technologies includes a standard 328-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual with available 'SynchroRev Match' (the world's first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission), refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 4-wheel vented disc brakes. 

"The new 370Z Roadster lives in the same sweet spot of performance, style and value that the Z Coupe does," said Yamazaki. "Open air driving just begs for open roads and the new 370Z Convertible is the perfect companion."

Along with its larger displacement, the 3.7-liter engine gives better power delivery all the way to the 7,000 rpm redline, and with improved low-end power and more high-end torque (it develops a maximum of 37.0kg-m of torque @ 5,200 rpm), it creates an entirely new driving experience. Key to the enhanced performance is the VVEL system, which is able to optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. 

Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste. It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool.

The 2011 Z Roadster is offered with a choice of two new advanced transmissions - a close-ratio 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic. The 6-speed manual is available with SynchroRev Match, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The SynchroRev Match function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially 'blipping' the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical 'shock' when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention.

The most popular transmission option in the GCC will be the 7-speed automatic which includes Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode.

Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. The 7-speed's wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency, while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver's driving style.

The Z Roadster also utilizes the Z Coupe's advanced 4-wheel independent suspension. The double-wishbone front suspension (which replaces the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses lighter forged aluminium arms and a lightweight rigid aluminium-alloy cradle, along with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35% improved lever ratio. The 4-link rear suspension is also stiffer and lighter, with the rear cradle entirely integrated into a single part. 'High response' shock absorbers are utilized on each corner for improved ride comfort.

The 370Z Roadster wheel and tire package features 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminium-alloy wheels with 245/40R19 front and 275/35R19 rear tires.

The Z's already advanced braking system has been upgraded to include improved overall brake feel, better fade resistance and improved NVH. With adoption of the new variable ratio brake pedal, pedal stroke feel is more direct. The standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The Z's Nissan Sport Brakes includes large diameter 355mm front and 350mm rear rotors with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminium calipers.

Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the addition of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. A Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is standard.

The Nissan 370Z Roadster's list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; door-mounted curtain air bags; and seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Other standard equipment includes Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

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